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The Perfect Intimate Wedding Venue

Located in an almost forgotten valley between Luddesdown and Holly Hill in the heart of the Kent countryside, having been lovingly restored, this beautiful, unique and intimate medieval church and its surroundings are known as The Lost Village of Dode.

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Here, you may choose to celebrate your union in a way that feels most authentic to your spirit:

  • legal wedding ceremony or civil partnership within the candlelit church or in the open air, within the circle of ancient stones followed by a joyous wedding feast shared with family and friends, with food, laughter, and dancing beneath the stars to mark the start of your new chapter together.

  • elopement for couples seeking stillness, beauty, and a love story told quietly

  • a spiritual blessing or pagan handfasting beneath the elements with Dode's or your own celebrant

Your Wedding at the Lost Village of Dode

Unlike conventional wedding venues, the Lost Village of Dode is a place where time gently folds in on itself—a sacred, candlelit haven cradled in history and nature, perfect for those who seek something rare and deeply meaningful. If you're planning a wedding with up to 40 guests, Dode provides a flexible and intimate setting—ideal for both your legal ceremony and your reception, all in one beautiful, secluded location.

Lost Village of Dode Wedding Ceremonies:

  • Exclusive use of the church, lit by candles, and grounds for your wedding ceremony and up to two hours post ceremony.

  • If you are holding a Civil Ceremony at the Lost Village of Dode we will reserve your wedding date with Kent County Council.

  • Han​dfasting Ceremony  with the Dode celebrant (or bring your own) in the circle of ancient stones.

  • Invite up to 40 guests for your Wedding.

  • Priority booking for our superb on-site cottages, perfect for the wedding party.

  • In-house sound system to play music of your choice.

  • Wedding Ceremony Coordinator, plus on the day support included.

Make your Wedding Perfect with a Dode Wedding Package:

  • Exclusive use of the church and grounds for the whole day.

  • Your choice of reception meal:

    • High Tea

    • Grazing Table

    • Banquet - Two-course banquet or hogroast. Includes a food tasting ahead of your day

  • Our in-house photographer to capture those all-important memories of your special day from arrival, the ceremony and the couple/family shots after.

  • Superb floral arrangements in consultation with our florist e.g.: 1 bridal bouquet, 2 smaller bridesmaids bouquets, 4 button holes; colours chosen by you.

  • A run through/planning meeting of your special day. We believe this is a really important aspect of our wedding package, ensuring your day goes to plan.

  • Additional extra’s e.g. live streaming, ring bearing owl, live music, games, cocktail bar, etc. Have a look at more wedding options from our preferred suppliers by clicking the button below.

Your Elopement at the Lost Village of Dode

Far from the expectations of tradition and the demands of a large guest list, elopement weddings at The Lost Village of Dode are designed for couples who want something more personal, more sacred.

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Whether it’s just the two of you, or you’re joined by a handful of loved ones, your wedding will be entirely private, uniquely meaningful, and utterly unforgettable. If you dream of a ceremony that feels intentional, spiritual, and truly heartfelt, eloping at Dode may be exactly what you’ve been searching for. 

Lost Village of Dode Elopement Ceremonies:

  • Exclusive use of the church and grounds for your wedding ceremony and up to two hours post ceremony.

  • If you are holding a Civil Ceremony at the Lost Village of Dode we will reserve your wedding date with Kent County Council.

  • Han​dfasting Ceremony  with the Dode celebrant (or bring your own) in the circle of ancient stones.

  • Invite up to 6 guests for your Elopement.

  • Priority booking for our superb on-site cottages.

  • In-house sound system to play music of your choice.

  • Wedding Ceremony Coordinator, plus on the day support included.

Make your Elopement Perfect with a Dode Elopment Package:

  • Celebratory Toast: A post-ceremony drink to mark the beginning of your new chapter together.

  • Our in-house photographer to capture every intimate moment.

  • Floral Arrangements: Beautifully crafted bouquet for the bride and buttonhole for the groom to enhance your ceremony.

Handfasting

Handfasting ceremonies have their roots as an Ancient Celtic Tradition and date back as far as 7,000BC.​ Handfasting ceremonies involve a couple who, while holding hands, are symbolically bound by cords and declared that there is only one life between them; much in the same way as wedding vows are made now. In fact, the phrase ‘tying the knot’ comes from the traditional handfasting concept. The couple then exchange a gift, most commonly rings or a gold coin, broken in half; as a token of their love and commitment. ​​Continue this meaningful tradition at Holly Henge, our circle of ancient stones, to declare the significance of your relationship and future journey together.

Lost Village of Dode Handfasting Ceremonies:

  • Handfasting ceremonies at The Lost Village of Dode can be performed under the careful guidance of the Guardians of Dode, or personalised to you as a couple using your own celebrant. This is a binding of your “hearts and souls” and the vows that are made are guided by your own story, in an ancient handfasting ceremony which far pre-dates marriage itself.

  • A dedicated handfasting ceremony or as part of your civil wedding ceremony or partnership.

  • Exclusive use of the church and grounds for your ceremony and up to two hours post ceremony.

  • Free on-site parking, for use by guests and suppliers.

  • Priority booking for our superb on-site cottages, to make it a perfect day at Dode.

  • Ceremony Coordinator, plus on the day support included.

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